Sports Concussions

A concussion is a brain injury that is caused by a bump or blow to the head. It can be serious even if you've just been "dinged." Knowing the symptoms of a concussion and steps for prevention can help you stay off the bench and in the game.

Our concussion management team offers athletes, parents, coaches and educators information on concussion awareness and prevention. To help us determine when an athlete can safely return to play, we use tests that include ImPACT®, the most widely used computerized concussion evaluation tool.

ImPACT, immediate post-concussion assessment and cognitive testing, is a computerized concussion evaluation tool. It is used to help provide useful information to practitioners in making sound return to play decisions following concussions. The test measures:

Attention span

Working memory

Sustained and selective attention time

Response variability

Non-verbal problem solving

Reaction time

ImPACT also offers baseline testing that can provide valuable information for recovery. Baseline testing is done before a concussion so individuals can be compared to their condition after an injury. The information is crucial for return-to-play decisions.

Management

A concussion needs time to heal. Management differs depending on the level of severity. These steps may be included:

Rest your mind.

Prevent re-injury.

Ask a responsible adult to observe you.

Do not take medicines without your doctor's permission.

Eat nutritious foods, and drink plenty of water.

Rest your body.

Consult with physician specialists.

Recovery

Research suggests that those who are not fully recovered from a concussion are significantly vulnerable for recurrent, cumulative, and even catastrophic consequences of a second concussion. The best way to manage a concussion is to seek medical care promptly by a trained concussion medical specialist.

Prevention

Every sport is different, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself.

Follow your coach's rules for safety and the rules of the sport.

Practice good sportsmanship at all times.

Use the proper sports equipment, including personal protective equipment. In order for equipment to protect you, it must be: